As the dramaturg of "Between Riverside and Crazy," I was drawn to the play's relevance in 2024. Once described by critics as an “overly topical play” that may “soon be dated as the headlines about police misconduct go away,” this play has become even more topical in a post-pandemic world. Set against the backdrop of New York , “Between Riverside and Crazy” offers an exploration of themes such as over-militarization in the NYPD, police brutality/ misconduct, and the realities of homelessness and evictions.
The portrayal of over-militarization within the NYPD remains as pertinent as ever. In recent years, we have witnessed a growing concern over the increasing militarization of law enforcement agencies across the country. The play provides a powerful lens through which to examine the consequences of this militarization, shedding light on the systemic issues of abuse of power, racial profiling, and the erosion of trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. As we grapple with calls for police reform and accountability, "Between Riverside and Crazy" serves as a timely reminder of the urgent need for meaningful change within our policing institutions.
Furthermore, the play's exploration of police brutality and misconduct resonates deeply in the current socio-political climate. In the wake of high-profile cases of police violence and the widespread outcry for justice, the play confronts us with uncomfortable truths about the realities faced by marginalized communities at the hands of law enforcement. By centering the narrative around the experiences of Walter "Pops" Washington, a retired African-American police officer seeking accountability for the shooting that left him scarred, the play forces us to reckon with the pervasive issues of racial injustice and systemic bias within our criminal justice system.
Additionally, "Between Riverside and Crazy" sheds light on the human cost of homelessness and evictions, themes that have become increasingly urgent in the wake of economic instability and housing crises exacerbated by the global pandemic. Through the lens of Pops' struggle to hold onto his rent-controlled apartment amidst looming eviction threats, the play confronts us with the harsh realities faced by those on the margins of society, grappling with issues of poverty, displacement, and the erosion of community support systems.
In bringing "Between Riverside and Crazy" to the stage in 2024, my aim is to provoke meaningful dialogue and reflection on these pressing issues that continue to shape our world. By amplifying voices that have too often been silenced and challenging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths, I hope to spark empathy, understanding, and ultimately, a collective commitment to building a more just and equitable society for all.
